transitioning.org > Why Many Singaporeans Are Irked By Mr Lee Kuan Yew’s Remark on Foreign Talents: Number of Vi...

Yet ironically, cost remains one of the main consideration when companies consider hiring foreigners and the need to implement minimum wage must be seen as a crucial protective cushion for our local workers. Without minimum wage, employers can hire foreigners using the low salary platform to deter our local workers from stepping out to apply for many service jobs available now. Foreign workers from many poor third world countries will flock to our island state even if the salary is as low as $800 a month with only two off days and a 12-hour work day. It is still better than slaving away in their own countries where the pay is only less than $200 a month.